Peace Center, Lahore organized Interfaith Iftar and Easter Dinner on 7th April,2024 at Lahore. In this program 45 Interfaith leaders from different religions as Muslims, Christians, Hindu and Sikh were present and with joy they participated like brothers and sisters in this interfaith gathering. In honorable guests Mufti Ashiq Hussain, Pandit Baghat Lal Khokhar, Allama Mehmood Ghaznavi, Fr. John Joseph, Allama Qasim Ali Qasim, Allam Asghar Arif Chishti, Allama Asim Makhdoom, Qari Shakeel Ahmad, Syed Nau-Bhar Shah, Sardar Sikandar, Pastor Nasir, Advocate Ishtiaq Chaudhry, Zaheer Shah, Pastor Arif, Fr. Akhtar Naveed OP and Dominicans brother participated in this Interfaith Iftar and Easter Dinner at Peace Center.   

Let us join in extinguishing the fires of hatred, violence and war, and instead light the gentle candle of peace, drawing upon resources for peace that are present in our rich human and religious traditions. “Christians and Muslims: Witnesses of Hope”. Hope can be symbolized by a candle, whose light radiates security and joy, whereas fire, uncontrolled, can lead to the destruction of fauna and flora, infrastructure and the loss of human lives. May you’re fasting and other pious practices during Ramadan and the celebration of ‘Eid-ul Fitr that concludes it, bring you abundant fruits of peace, hope and joy.

Fr. James Channan OP shared that today, we come together as people of different faiths, backgrounds, and traditions to celebrate Interfaith Iftar & Easter Dinner, a day that carries a universal message of hope, renewal, and love. Easter reminds us that after every hardship comes ease, after darkness comes light, and after despair comes new beginnings.

The teachings of Jesus Christ emphasize compassion, forgiveness, and peace—values that resonate in all religions. His life was dedicated to serving others, uplifting the poor, healing the broken, and spreading love without discrimination. In these challenging times, we must hold on to these values to build a more peaceful and united Pakistan.

No matter our beliefs, we are all part of the same human family. Our shared values—kindness, justice, and respect for one another—can help us foster a society where all people, regardless of faith, can live with dignity and harmony. As the Holy Quran (49:13) reminds us:

"O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another."
Let Easter be a reminder that love is stronger than hate, unity is stronger than division, and hope is stronger than fear. May this day inspire us to work together for peace, interfaith harmony, and the progress of our beloved Pakistan.
Happy Easter to all! May God bless us with peace, love, and understanding.

Allama Asim Makhdoom shared that we are a peace family and together we are working for peace and interfaith harmony and today this program is a good example and model of love and peace that how together we can create unity, love, tolerance and peace among the people of different religions through these religious festivals.  According to my religion, this goodness is for all, not for one person or group. God has planted a light in us, in some more, others less, but in all.”

Mufti Ashiq Hussain shared that Ramadan is a time for spiritual renewal, self-improvement, and generosity. It reminds Muslims to be grateful, kind, and conscious of God in every action. Through fasting, they purify their hearts, strengthen their faith, and contribute to a better, more compassionate world. Ramadan is known as the month of mercy, forgiveness, and salvation. Muslims seek Allah’s forgiveness and also forgive others, promoting peace and reconciliation. By experiencing hunger, Muslims develop empathy for the less fortunate. Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah) is emphasized during Ramadan to help those in need.The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:“The best of men are those who are most beneficial to others.” (Hadith - Al-Mu’jam al-Awsat). All participants enjoyed with delicious Easter Dinner at Peace Center Lahore, Pakistan